[Osage Orange]

I would sure like to know why there are plans for a tracheostomy if they plan to wean your husband off the ventilator. Why would he need an artificial airway, then?

Without re-reading...I believe I read that this gentleman had been intubated for 3 weeks...I will assume that he was orally intubated.

Generally speaking most hospitals would be leaning towards performing a trach..at about that time, ( or sooner depending on diagnosis..) if conventional weaning has failed. Oral ET tubes can cause skin breakdown..( lips,facial area's..)oral hygiene is harder, Pt's find it harder to swallow...and of course are just plain uncomfortable.

Trach's can facilitate weaning in many pt's by just eliminating the upper airway, thus reducing airway resistance. Many times, that can be the difference. Plus they are much more tolerated, ( less gag reflex..etc.. )and just make "life" easier.

Without getting too wordy...I hope that's helpful.......

FRegards,

[hocndoc]

Thanks - as I said, I've got some reading to do.